Impediments to the Successful Use of Anabolic Agents in Clinical Care

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Abstract
Growth factors represent one of the next important steps in providing efficient and effective nutrition to catabolic patients. However, several issues will need to be addressed in order to optimize their use. These include the effects of these agents in malnourished patients, the influence of nutritional deficiencies on anabolic effects, the effect of inflammation on growth factor-stimulated protein synthesis, and concerns with safety and cost. Adequate training of physicians and changes in our present approach in caring for patients may be the greatest obstacles to overcome if full application of this biotechnology to patient care is to be realized. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 23:S210-S213, 1999)